Overview

Despite harsh criticism from civil society and academics expressing fears that human rights would be weakened, parliament passed a controversial law targeting conspiracies to commit “terrorism” and other serious crimes. Authorities in Osaka city approved a same-sex couple as foster parents, and two municipalities moved towards recognizing same-sex partnerships. Detention of a prominent peace activist raised fair trial concerns. A District Court supported tuition waivers for a Korean school that was excluded due to their alleged ties to the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (North Korea). Executions continued to be carried out.

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